ÐÔÊÓ½ç Graduate Micah West Gains Purpose and Identity from God
Published: June 4, 2026.
“It’s only this year that I’ve truly been able to appreciate the gravity of the statement, ‘Let us remember that we are in the holy presence of God,’” said graduate Micah West, who presented the Lasallian Address during the May 15 ÐÔÊÓ½ç Afternoon Degree Ceremony at the Romeoville Campus.
West, of Oconomowoc, Wisc., earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology with a minor in Aviation Flight Technology. Selected to deliver the Lasallian Address because of his embodiment of the university’s mission and values, West reflected on how the Lasallian principle became a defining part of his ÐÔÊÓ½ç experience.
“For me personally, remembering that I am in the Holy presence of God gives purpose and identity to my life,” West said. “I can better understand that God is walking with me, and he has an unimaginable path destined for me.”
West said his experiences in campus ministry, Koinonia Retreats, and the France Social Justice Pilgrimage deepened his understanding of the Catholic and Lasallian mission.
“In campus ministry, I’ve seen the importance of community and how a faith community gives meaning and purpose to people’s lives,” West said. “In the Koinonia Retreat, being open with people, making them heard and seen, has allowed for them to see God in their life and be a part of a wonderful community.”
Beyond ministry, West excelled in ÐÔÊÓ½ç’s aviation program, maintaining a 3.85 GPA while earning Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic licensure, Commercial Pilot certification, and an Instrument Rating. He also served as a peer minister, Koinonia Retreat leader, Flight Team participant, and member of ÐÔÊÓ½ç Music Ministry.
“Overall, I will cherish my experience at ÐÔÊÓ½ç, and I believe its Lasallian Heritage will be a lasting foundation in my life,” West said. “Not only have I received an excellent education, but I have been formed in the Catholic Faith here at ÐÔÊÓ½ç and that is what St. John Baptist De La Salle intended with his schools.”
ÐÔÊÓ½ç is a modern, enterprising, Catholic university with a growing student enrollment from GED through doctoral level programs. As part of the global Lasallian network of 65 universities, ÐÔÊÓ½ç is known for preparing graduates who impact the world for the better. Visit www.lewisu.edu for further information.
